The rich Basque folklore is replete with magical and enigmatic beings, characters that have fueled the imagination of both young and old for generations. Among them, Ahari stands out, an elf in the form of a ram who, according to tradition, would frighten children for amusement on dark nights. This mischievous and mysterious figure has served as inspiration for naming one of the most unique wines by Oxer Bastegieta, a young and talented Basque winemaker deeply committed to the viticulture of yesteryear.
With a bold and unconventional image, Ahari embodies Oxer's philosophy: respect for tradition, passion for innovation, and a profound love for the land. Enamoured with the Rioja Alavesa, he works with century-old vineyards using regenerative farming practices, crafting unique wines that are recognised and admired worldwide.
Oxer Ahari is the result of a perfectly balanced blend of tempranillo and graciano grapes, cultivated in low-yield plots with clay-limestone soils. Each cluster is carefully handpicked, preserving its quality from vineyard to winery. Fermentation is carried out with indigenous yeasts, maintaining the purity and authenticity of the terroir, while the wine is aged for twelve months in used French oak barrels, a process that imparts complexity and elegance without overshadowing the fruit.
The result is a profound, balanced wine brimming with character, which not only delights the palate but also tells a story: the union between Basque mythology and modern viticulture. If you are seeking more than just a wine, an experience that combines the magic of the land and human ingenuity, Ahari from the DOCa Rioja is an unparalleled choice.